How to apply for Texas State Veterans Cemeteries (No-Cost Burial Benefits)

Who it's for

Texas operates State Veterans Cemeteries in Killeen, Corpus Christi, Mission, and Abilene (with a West Texas location coming in Lubbock). There is no charge for interment of veterans, their spouses, and eligible dependents — the benefit includes the grave plot, opening and closing, a grave liner for casketed burials, a headstone or marker, military honors, and perpetual care. Eligibility matches U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs national cemetery rules. Pre-registration is available and settles the paperwork ahead of need.

What you'll need

• DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork (discharge under conditions other than dishonorable)
• Marriage certificate for spouse eligibility

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Texas State Veterans Cemeteries (No-Cost Burial Benefits). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need dd-214 or other military discharge paperwork (discharge under conditions other than dishonorable), marriage certificate for spouse eligibility — is anything else required? What is the best next step?”

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Confirm eligibility — this benefit follows U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs national cemetery rules. Generally, any veteran discharged under conditions other than dishonorable qualifies, along with their spouse and eligible dependents.
2. Gather your documents. Veterans need their DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork showing discharge under conditions other than dishonorable. If applying for a spouse, also gather the marriage certificate.
3. Choose how to apply — you can apply online or by calling the Texas Veterans Land Board at 800-252-8387.
4. Consider pre-registering before a burial need arises. Pre-registration confirms eligibility in advance and settles the paperwork ahead of time. Call 800-252-8387 to start the pre-registration process.
5. Submit your application online or complete it over the phone with a Texas Veterans Land Board representative.

What to expect: After submitting, the Texas Veterans Land Board will review your application and verify eligibility based on the discharge paperwork and any other documents provided. If you pre-register, you will receive confirmation of eligibility so that arrangements can be made quickly when the time comes. Processing times vary — contact the Texas Veterans Land Board at 800-252-8387 for an estimate. There is no charge for interment; the benefit covers the grave plot, opening and closing, a grave liner for casketed burials, a headstone or marker, military honors, and perpetual care at Texas State Veterans Cemeteries in Killeen, Corpus Christi, Mission, and Abilene, with a future location planned in Lubbock. There is no standard renewal requirement for this benefit, but keeping discharge and marriage documents on file ensures the process goes smoothly when needed.